Clark County Press, Neillsville, WI

September 16, 2009, Page 8

Transcribed by Dolores Mohr Kenyon

Welcome Home Party at The Highground

Come, welcome home the GI statue which is the genesis of the tears in the Fountain of Tears tribute reflecting the spirituality of the Meditation Garden at The Highground, rural Neillsville, the statue will be unveiled at 3 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, followed by a talking circle.

In one hand the GI is holding dog tags of his fallen comrade; his other hand rests on a helmet and impaled rifle.  His tears flow through the fountain under the bridge and into the pond.  The wife and child of the fallen soldier will sit at the edge of the pond holding a folded flag.

The Fountain of tears is one of four rooms within the Meditation Garden.  Trees and shrubs have been planted and flowers adorn the garden during the summer months.  Benches have been placed throughout for quiet meditation by visitors.

After the unveiling of the GI statue, cookies and coffee will be served. Everyone is invited to attend the event. 

The 140 acre veterans’ memorial park has nine veterans’ tributes and four walking trails.  The park is a 501©3 organization and relies on donations and volunteers, receiving no ongoing federal and state funding.  Located three miles west of Neillsville on USH 10, the Timberframe Information & Gift Shop is open year-round from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.  For more information about the unveiling or The Highground, call 715-743-4224.

Rodwell speaks at ceremony

The Highground Volunteer General Manager Kirk Rodman (l) hands the microphone to guest speaker Wisconsin National Guard Senior Advisor Lieutenant Colonel Mark Rodwell during a Veterans Day Celebration held Tuesday, Nov. 11, at The Highground.